The capital of the Canary archipelago, Santa Cruz de Tenerife has a captivating blend of avant-garde architecture and historic heritage. We were struck by its cultural diversity, from the iconic, futuristic Tenerife Auditorium to the more traditional, historic squares. Its lively city center, green spaces and waterfront make it a very pleasant urban destination.
Read on for our recommendations on must-do activities in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, illustrated with lots of photos and tips!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
1. Explore the old town of Santa Cruz
Why visit?
The historic heart of Santa Cruz will charm you with its cobbled streets and lively atmosphere. We particularly liked the Plaza de España, the focal point of the city center. We were fascinated by the history of this emblematic square. It was built on the remains of the Castillo de San Cristóbal, an ancient fortress now open to visitors. You can also admire its magnificent water mirror, the work of Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron. On one side, you’ll see the reflection of the Anaga mountain range across the water, and on the other, the buildings that surround the square.
Practical advice
- Duration: 1h30 to 2h
- Accessible to people with reduced mobility, but some streets are paved with narrow sidewalks
- Numerous restaurants, bars and cafés nearby
- Would you be tempted by a guided tour of downtown Santa Cruz?
2. Contemplating ocean views at Palmetum
Why visit?
The Palmetum is an exceptional botanical garden housing one of the world’s largest collections of palms. We loved strolling through this lush park, which also offers stunning views of the ocean, Santa Cruz and the Anaga massif. Built on a former landfill site, this vast open-air museum has also awakened our environmental conscience. Its mission to preserve nature and its sustainable practices, such as the use of recycled water and organic waste management, make it an example of ecology.
Practical advice
- Location: south of the city center, next to the Auditorim de Tenerife
- Access: “Intercambiador” streetcar stop, 12-minute walk
- Duration: 1h30 to 2h
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily (last entry at 5 p.m.)
- Prices: adults 6€, children 2,80€.
- Accessible to people with reduced mobility (elevator, wheelchair loan, adapted toilets) and inclusive guided tours – find out more here.
- No catering facilities, but café area with snack dispensers
- Book your ticket now to save time!
WHERE TO STAY in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
The old town of Santa Cruz
AC Hotel by Marriott Tenerife – Check photos and availability
North of downtown
Hotel Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey – Check photos and availability
The Park Suites by IRES LAR – Check photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Santa Cruz.
3. Enjoy the avant-garde architecture of the Tenerife Auditorium
Why visit?
The Tenerife Auditorium is much more than a concert hall, it’s a true work of architectural art. We were captivated by its futuristic lines, majestically cut out against the ocean. Its unique shape, often compared to a wave or a crescent moon, makes it an emblematic monument of the city. If you don’t have the opportunity to see a show there, opt for a guided tour that reveals what goes on behind the scenes at this major cultural venue. You’ll discover the monument from the inside, and learn more about its history.
Practical advice
- Location: south of downtown near the Palmetum
- Access: “Intercambiador” streetcar stop, 7-minute walk
- Price of guided tours: €5, free for children under 12
- Guided tour times: Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm and Saturday, 10am to 2pm (book in advance on +34 922 568 600 or visitas@auditoriodetenerife.com).
- Accessible to people with reduced mobility (various entry points)
- Alisios Café – Cafetería del Auditorio on site
- Link to the official website here
OUR TIPS TO RENT A CAR IN Tenerife
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
4. Santa Cruz Carnival festivities
Why visit?
Declared a “Festival of International Tourist Interest” since 1980, the Santa Cruz Carnival is one of the most famous in the world. It could even become a World Heritage Site in the very near future. Often compared to the Rio Carnival, it attracts tourists from all over the world every year. The festivities include parades, contests, galas, dances, Carnival Queen elections, and other colorful activities! If, like us, you don’t plan to visit the city during the celebrations, head for the Carnival Museum which continues the event throughout the year. This cheerful place entertained us with its crazy costumes!
Practical advice
- Location: west of downtown, near Puente Galcerán
- Access: “San Sebastián” bus stop, 8-minute walk
- Duration: 30min to 1h
- Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
- Price: free of charge
- Accessible to people with reduced mobility (first floor, smooth floor)
- Ideal for children (costumes and small stage show)
- Link to the official museum website here
- No catering facilities, but café area with snack dispensers
- Take a guided tour of downtown, including the Maison du Carnaval!
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in the Canaries a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
If you’d like to be notified when our guide to the Canaries is published, please subscribe:
5. Recharge your batteries in García Sanabria Park
Why visit?
Parc García Sanabria is a cool oasis in the heart of the city. We were enchanted by its alleys lined with tropical plants and flowers, elegant sculptures and refreshing fountains. It’s one of Santa Cruz’s green lungs, along with the Palmetum. Enjoy a relaxing break in the shade of the tall trees, while your children play in the playground. The famous Rambla de Santa Cruz, which borders the garden, adds to the charm of the place with its lively atmosphere and lines of majestic palm trees.
Practical advice
- Location: downtown along the Rambla de Santa Cruz
- Duration: 30min to 1h
- Permanent opening
- Free admission
- Accessible to people with reduced mobility (wide, paved main paths, benches)
- Ideal for children with a playground
- Dogs allowed on leash
- Feed ban
- Restaurant on site
- Explore the heart of Santa Cruz and García Sanabria Park with a local guide!
6. Discover the works of César Manrique
Why discover?
César Manrique’s most emblematic work in Santa Cruz is the maritime park, which makes up for the lack of beaches in the town. This vast bathing area blends harmoniously into the landscape, combining natural elements with modern design. Ideal for an outing with family or friends, you’ll enjoy its 3 saltwater pools, food and beverage outlets and landscaped terraces. A mobile sculpture by the artist adjoins the complex at the Castillo de San Juan Bautista. It moves with the wind.
Practical advice
- Location: south of downtown near the Palmetum
- Access: “Intercambiador” streetcar stop a 10-minute walk away
- Duration: 2h to 3h depending on your wishes
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in high season, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in low season
- Prices: adults 7.50€, children under 12 4€.
- Accessible to people with reduced mobility (parking spaces, elevators, ramps, adapted toilets, amphibious chair)
- Catering outlets
- Book your César Manrique Maritime Park ticket now!
7. Enjoy the magnificent beaches north of Santa Cruz
Why visit?
Although there are no beaches in the town itself due to the contaminated waters, we discovered some wonderful beaches north of Santa Cruz in the Anaga massif. The famous Playa de Las Teresitas, a 15-minute drive from San Andrés, seduced us with its golden sands and turquoise waters. If you’re looking for wilder, more secluded beaches, push on to Igueste and the surrounding area, where you’ll discover unspoilt coves and cliffs that plunge into the ocean. Check out our article on the most beautiful beaches north of Santa Cruz!
Practical advice
- Location: between the villages of San Andrés and Igueste in the Anaga massif
- Access: car or bus 910/945 – more info here
- Playa de Las Teresitas is accessible to people with reduced mobility (access ramp, pontoon on the sand).
- Water cab to Playa de Antequera – book in advance here
Subscribe to our Newsletter
- Get away from it all with Region Lovers’ beautiful destinations!
- Once a month
- Advertising-free
8. Taste local produce at Marché Notre-Dame d’Afrique
Why visit?
The Notre-Dame d’Afrique Municipal Market, also known as La Recova, is a must for immersing yourself in the local gastronomic culture. We were seduced by its neoclassical colonial architecture and authentic ambience. You’ll discover the famous little black potatoes typical of the Canary Islands and taste freshly caught fish. The variety of regional products, the friendly atmosphere and the colorful stalls make it a pleasant place to live, where locals and tourists mingle.
Practical advice
- Location: downtown
- Duration: between 1h and 1h30
- Opening hours: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily
- Partially accessible to people with reduced mobility (escalators)
- Free parking for customers for one hour
- Playground for children
- On-site catering
- Discover Santa Cruz and its traditional market on a guided tour!
9. Immerse yourself in contemporary art at TEA
Why visit?
TEA, Tenerife Espace des Arts, is a dynamic cultural center that has established itself as an essential reference point in the Canary Islands’ artistic landscape. We were won over by its bold architecture, which blends harmoniously with the historic district. Inside, you’ll discover temporary exhibitions of contemporary art on a variety of subjects. Between film screenings, creative stagings and live performances, art takes many forms. It also houses a photography center dedicated to the archipelago’s visual heritage, and a library frequented by local students.
Practical advice
- Location: downtown
- Duration: 1h to 1h30
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays)
- Price: free (€4 for cinema screenings)
- Accessible to people with reduced mobility (elevators, smooth floor, large exhibition areas)
- MiniTEA area especially for children – see the 3D map of the site
- Cafetería del TEA on site
- Link to the official museum website here
10. Stroll through historic squares
Why visit?
The town is dotted with charming squares, giving it a certain cachet. We were particularly taken with the Plaza del Príncipe de Asturias and the Plaza Veinticinco de Julio de Los Patos during our stay in Santa Cruz. While the former was decorated with luminous Christmas ornaments, the latter was full of character, with its fountain covered in a colorful mosaic. We loved wandering around the city and stumbling across these random squares. They are ideal meeting places, especially in the cooler evenings.
Practical advice
- Location: downtown
- Duration: 30min to 1h
- Free access
- Accessible to people with reduced mobility, but some streets are paved with narrow sidewalks
- Numerous restaurants, bars and cafés nearby
- Explore the city center and its historic squares with an expert guide!
DISCOVER Santa Cruz de Tenerife
11. Our Lady of Conception Church
Why visit?
The bell tower of Santa Cruz Cathedral, also known as Our Lady of Conception Church, dominates Calle Antonio Domínguez Alfonso. Inside the religious building, we were struck by its elaborate wooden ceiling, a testament to remarkable craftsmanship. The only 5-aisle church on the archipelago, its architectural style is a blend of Baroque and Tuscan. It has a special atmosphere that invites contemplation and meditation. Declared a site of cultural interest, it is a symbol of the city’s religious heritage.
Practical advice
- Location: downtown
- Duration: 30min to 45min
- Opening hours: 8.30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. to 8 p.m. daily
- Consult the mass schedule here
- Free admission
- Accessible to people with reduced mobility (wide aisles, smooth floor)
- Numerous restaurants, bars and cafés nearby
- Visit Santa Cruz Cathedral and the historic center with a local guide!
12. Go shopping
Why shop?
The famous Plaza de La Candelaria, which opens onto Calle del Castillo, is characterized by its lively shopping atmosphere. We particularly enjoyed this pedestrian street during our visit over Christmas, when the bright decorations added a magical atmosphere to the place. Here you’ll find ready-to-wear boutiques and major international brands. To the south of the city center, the El Corte Inglés and Meridiano shopping malls offer a modern and diverse shopping experience.
Practical advice
- Location: downtown
- Stores on Calle del Castillo open until 9pm (closed on Sundays)
- El Corte Inglés shopping mall open from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily
- Meridiano Shopping Center open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
13. Discover the Canary Islands Military History Museum
Why visit?
In our opinion, it’s one of the city’s best museums. It promises a fascinating dive into the archipelago’s military history. Housed in the Fuerte de Almeyda, a remarkable fortification completed in 1884, it traces the evolution of island defense over the centuries. We were particularly impressed by the many armored vehicles on display in the inner courtyard. We also appreciated the richness of the collection, which includes flags, weapons, military decorations, radios, maps, models and other historical artifacts. Some of the casemates have been converted to accommodate visitors, making the experience all the more immersive!
Practical advice
- Location: north of the city center next to the Rambla de Santa Cruz
- Access: “Almeyda” bus stop opposite the museum entrance
- Duration: 1h to 1h30
- Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekends and public holidays
- Price: free of charge
- Accessible to the disabled for the most part (ramps, toilets), but some areas are difficult to reach (casemates).
- Cafetería La Pérgola on site
- Link to the official museum website here
14. Visit the Museum of Nature and Archaeology
Why visit?
Located along the Barranco de Santos, this museum immerses you in the natural sciences and archaeology of the Canary Islands. We were particularly fascinated by its collection of remarkably well-preserved mummies, some of which still show traces of their scalps. You’ll also discover the archipelago’s geological evolution, as well as the local flora and fauna. Although the direction of the visit is not always easy to follow, we appreciated the museum’s interactive approach, with its playful devices and explanatory models.
Practical advice
- Location: downtown along the Barranco de Santos
- Access: “Fundación” streetcar stop 2 minutes’ walk away
- Duration: 1h30 to 2h
- Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays and public holidays
- Admission: adults €5, children under 8 free (free on Fridays and Saturdays from 4pm to closing time).
- Accessible to people with reduced mobility (wheelchair loan, toilets, access ramps)
- Child-friendly, with interactive games, screens and models (strollers available on loan)
- Cafetería El Gastro de MUNA on site
- Link to the official museum website here
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in the Canaries a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
If you’d like to be notified when our guide to the Canaries is published, please subscribe:
Things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: other ideas
Need more inspiration? See our selection of additional activities:
Other cultural sites in Santa Cruz
In Santa Cruz, you’ll have a choice of other cultural venues:
- San Cristóbal Castle: this small underground museum, located beneath the Plaza de España, reveals fragments of the walls that once protected the city.
- Museo Municipal de Bellas Artes: houses a collection of works tracing the history of Canarian art, as well as Flemish and Spanish Baroque paintings. It reflects the evolution of local society through art.
- Espace Culturel El Tanque: this alternative cultural venue is housed in a former oil tank. This conceptual space gives free rein to avant-garde artistic creation.
Things to do in Santa Cruz with children
Santa Cruz offers many fun activities for children. The Musée de l’Illusion will fascinate them with its interactive exhibits and surprising optical illusions. Find out more here.
For outdoor activities, several modern, safe playgrounds are available throughout the town:
- In the heart of the García Sanabria Park botanical garden
- On the seafront promenade, near the marina
- In the Marché Notre-Dame d’Afrique
- On the outskirts of San Juan Bautista Castle
Things to do in Santa Cruz when it rains
In case of rainy weather, we recommend taking refuge in Santa Cruz’s museums. As you scroll up this article, you’ll discover some of our favorites in the city. Religious buildings also offer an ideal cultural refuge. The parish church of San Francisco de Asís, with its elaborate wooden ceiling, houses magnificent Baroque altarpieces. The Parish Church of Our Lady of the Pilar, meanwhile, boasts superb, colorful stained glass windows.
For a more casual day out, shopping malls are a good option. You’ll find not only stores, but also restaurants and cinemas to keep you entertained while staying dry.
Excursions around Santa Cruz de Tenerife
From Santa Cruz, there are many wonderful excursions on offer. Here are our 3 favorites:
- Massif d’Anaga: rent a car and drive along Route TF-12, which offers some of the best views of the north of the island. Although you have to drive slowly, the panoramic views of the mountains and ocean are breathtaking! For even more comfort, opt for a private tour with pick-up. – See prices, photos and availability.
- Teide National Park: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it transports you into a lunar landscape dominated by Spain’s highest peak. A must-see destination not to be missed! – see tour details.
- Full island tour: discover Tenerife’s exceptional diversity in just one day. From traditional villages to lively seaside resorts, each stop reveals a new face of the island. – Find out more here.
Useful tips for visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Where is Santa Cruz?
- Capital of the Canary Islands
- Located in the northeast of the island of Tenerife
- Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean
- Backed by the Anaga mountain range
- The archipelago’s main seaport
Our map of the city’s top tourist attractions will help you find your way around:
How do I get to Santa Cruz?
There are two options for getting to Santa Cruz de Tenerife:
- By plane: Tenerife Nord airport offers flights between islands and from Spain. From there, it’s a 30-minute bus ride to Santa Cruz, or a 20-minute drive. Head for Tenerife South Airport for international flights. Allow 50min by bus to reach the capital afterwards, or 40min by car.
>> View available flights << - Ferries: the port of Santa Cruz offers regular ferry services to the other islands of the archipelago and to the Iberian Peninsula.
>> See ferry offers <<
OUR TIPS TO RENT A CAR IN Tenerife
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
Parking in Santa Cruz
Parking in the historic center of Santa Cruz can be tricky, but there are several options. Underground parking lots offer the safest and most practical solution, including the Parking du Marché and Parking La Ola. They are not free, but secure.
Otherwise, you’ll find 2 large free parking lots at the Maritime Park and the Palmetum, but you’ll have to walk further to get to the city center. Allow at least 15 minutes on foot.
Getting around Santa Cruz
In Santa Cruz, there are several transportation options to suit your needs:
- Walking: ideal for exploring the historic center, with its pedestrian streets and lively squares. Most major attractions are within easy walking distance.
- TITSA city buses: an efficient network serving all parts of the city. The trips are frequent.
- The tramway: a modern line linking the city center to La Laguna, particularly convenient during rush hour.
- Car: if you want to explore the surrounding area freely, such as the Anaga massif and its beaches.
Where to eat in Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
The city is full of good places to discover the local gastronomy. Discover our 3 favorite restaurants in Santa Cruz:
- Restaurant Etéreo by Pedro Nel for creative cuisine with local influences
- Restaurant El Aguarde for traditional Spanish and Canarian dishes
- Restaurant Sagrario for gourmet local dishes
Check out our article on the city’s best restaurants for more options!
Visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife in winter
Winter is an excellent time to visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The mild temperatures, around 21°C, are very pleasant. The heat is more bearable than in the height of summer. However, the sky may be more overcast, and the risk of rain more frequent. More generally, weather conditions are less predictable than in the sunny south of the island. For the more adventurous, the ocean temperature is generally between 19 and 20°C. So, tempted by a little winter swimming?
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO tenerife
- Best of
What to do in Tenerife
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful roads
Amusement parks
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track (coming soon)
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Tenerife
How to get around
How to rent a car in Tenerife
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Where to stay in Tenerife
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
Dolphin watching in Tenerife (coming soon)
Teide National Park
Anaga Rural Park (coming soon)
La Orotava (coming soon)
Garachico
Village of Masca
Pyramids of Güimar
